Nvidia announced on Thursday that it has entered into partnerships with several Japanese robotics and electronics companies, including Fanuc and Yaskawa Electric. The collaborations are intended to facilitate the development of what Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang described as \"physical AI,\" aimed at making industrial robots more adaptable and easier to operate.
In a related development, Noetra, a government-backed Japanese firm, announced plans to purchase 27,500 Nvidia Rubin chips. The acquisition will support the company's efforts to build a physical AI infrastructure. Noetra stated that construction for this project is scheduled to begin in April 2027, with operations expected to commence in June 2028.
Huang stated during an event in Tokyo that Japan possesses a significant lead in the chip supply chain, specifically in materials and equipment, despite a decline in its overall market share since the 1980s. The announcement comes as other industry leaders, such as ASML and TSMC, report increased demand and record earnings linked to investments in artificial intelligence technology.